Uganda: ICRC distributes aid to victims of fires

08-12-2005 News Release 05/95

Nearly 4,000 internally displaced people in the Gulu and Pader districts of northern Uganda - already ravaged by nearly 20 years of armed conflict - had all their belongings destroyed and were left without shelter by fires at the end of November.

Nearly 4,000 internally displaced people in the Gulu and Pader districts of northern Uganda – already ravaged by nearly 20 years of armed conflict – had all their belongings destroyed and were left without shelter by fires at the end of November. The ICRC and other organizations promptly brought relief supplies to some 2,000 of the victims in seven camps for the displaced. Tarpaulins, jerrycans, buckets, cups, plates, cooking pots, soap and blankets were distributed.

The dry season, during which the fire danger is highest, lasts from November to March in northern Uganda.

Since resuming operations in Uganda in 2004, the ICRC has assisted nearly 50,000 victims of fires in the country. The organization stands ready to provide further aid if needed.